Benton Township Police Department introduces 3 new officers

BENTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WNDU) - The Benton Township Police Department introduced three new officers to the public on Tuesday evening.

The three new officers are joining the force after graduating from the Lake Michigan College Police Academy last week. The new graduates completed a rigorous 16-week program, Lake Michigan College’s first police academy session in 42 years.

The college brought its police academy back to answer the growing need for well-trained law enforcement officers. It is estimated that in Berrien County alone there will be 130 police officers retiring over the next five years.

Lake Michigan College is partnering with local municipalities, including Benton Township, to provide accessible local training to those who want to serve their community.

“I always loved helping people,” said new Benton Township Police Officer Philip Huang. “I always was about the community, whether it was sports or bringing especially the youth together. Me personally I wanna be a part of the youth, I like doing after school programs. Playing basketball with them, playing sports. I think it shows them the better side of law enforcement.

“I’m really excited, just super happy the testing is over, and we’re here getting out onto the streets and protect and serve,” he added.

The Lake Michigan College Police Academy is offered each summer on the college’s Benton Harbor campus.

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